The Galana Kulalu food security project has achieved a significant milestone with its first harvest of 330-acre seed maize from the first phase of 1,500 acres cropped under the public-private partnership (PPP).
This landmark project, launched more than a decade ago, showcases the transformative power of irrigation and technology in modernising Kenya’s agricultural sector.
Located in a region with vast irrigable land, Galana Kulalu is poised to turn the country into a food-secure nation.
Through modern irrigation and farming practices, the project aims to unlock the country’s massive agricultural potential.
Agriculture contributes up to 30 percent of Kenya’s gross domestic product (GDP) and supports 70 percent of rural livelihoods. Yet, the sector’s immense promise has not been fully tapped. This is where Galana Kulalu comes in to play a fundamental role in transforming diverse value chains and realising the sector’s full potential.
The first harvest in Galana Kulalu is a testament to the government’s commitment to transform the agricultural sector, bolstering its contribution to the economy.
With plans to expand the cropped area progressively to 200,000 acres and with each acre expected to yield an average of 70 bags of maize per year, Kenya can hit 14 million bags annually, thus eliminating the need for imports that stands at Sh500 billion.
The project’s impact extends beyond food production. It is designed to trigger a multiplier effect on the economy by creating employment opportunities, catalysing agro-based industries, and stimulating rural economies.
An estimated 200 people are currently employed on the project, a number which is expected to exponentially rise as more acres are cultivated and planted given that every acre put under production creates five direct jobs and six indirect others. A stable source of income for farmers and rural communities translates into poverty reduction and enhanced food security.
The Galana Kulalu project is a shining example of what can be achieved through PPPs. Collaborating with the private sector has been critical in attracting capital, technology and commercial expertise. Selu Africa is working with the government through the National Irrigation Authority and Agricultural Development Corporation in delivering the first phase of the project.
With proper management and implementation, the Galana Kulalu project can become a model for sustainable agricultural development in the country. Its success story will be felt beyond our borders.
With its strategic location, advanced farming practices and its massive scope, the project has the potential to position Kenya as a regional agricultural leader, enhancing food security and stability in the East African region and beyond.
Despite its potential, the project has faced numerous challenges. However, with a well-crafted PPP model and infrastructure, it is now firmly on track, having surmounted the bumpy ride.
The infrastructure so far established includes a 20,000 cubic metre intake well, a two-kilometre lined canal, a 550,000 cubic metre reservoir, and a 20,000 cubic metre offtake pump.
As more infrastructure projects are rolled out, the prospects for Galana Kulalu can only look bright. Selu Africa plans to expand the cropped area to 3,400 acres by the end of the year from 1,500 currently, with a target of 5,400 acres by June 2026. This will progressively increase to 10,000 acres and eventually 20,000 acres as part of phase I.
Phase II includes construction of a 306 cubic metre Galana (Athi) Dam designed to irrigate 200,000 acres through a 68-kilometre canal.
The third phase is the opening up of the 200,000 acres for production through PPP. With this level of investment and commitment, Kenya’s food security prospects are looking brighter than ever.